(Prensa Latina) Santiago de Cuba, Cuba – The birth of famous Cuban musician Francisco Repilado, 97 years ago here, is recalled this month with different tributes, having the performance of the group named after him as the main attraction.
Compay Segundo died on July 14, 2002, arguably in the peak of a career that
saved him the sweetest glory for last, when, older than 80, he captivated half a world with his charm and artistic authenticity.One of the key places for the tribute is the grave where, as he wished, his remains lay at the Santa Ifigenia cemetery, the last stop of the mass march of the people in his funeral.
Led by one of his sons, Salvador Repilado, the band Los muchachos de Compay Segundo has performed in different parts of the city lately and accompanies Santiago inhabitants on behalf of all the Cubans in this tribute.
Author of Cuban popular music classics such as “Chan chan” and “Macusa,” including other popular Son and Guaracha songs, Compay Segundo was one of the Los Compadres duet, a landmark in mid-20th century.
“Pasion y realidad de Compay Segundo” is the second volume of a biography of the artist by musicologist Lino Betancourt, who based the research in 20 interviews to one of the most charismatic Cuban singers and composers.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.